Science · Topic 41 of 64

Air Pressure

Air pressure is the force of air molecules pushing on everything. At sea level the air pushes with about the weight of a small car on every square metre.

💡 Fun fact

You can feel air pressure when your ears pop in a fast lift or on an aeroplane.

All about Air Pressure

Air pressure is the force that air molecules exert on every surface. At sea level it is strong enough to support a column of mercury about 760 millimetres high.

Air pressure changes with height, so it is lower on mountains. That is why your ears pop on a fast lift or in an aeroplane.

🎮 Try it yourself!

Loading…

Real-life uses of Air Pressure

Predicting weather using barometers
Explaining how drinking straws work
Designing pressurised aircraft cabins

Frequently asked questions about Air Pressure

What causes air pressure?

Air molecules move and push on surfaces, and the total push is air pressure.

Why does air pressure drop on mountains?

There is less air above you, so there are fewer molecules pushing down.